The #1 Mistake People Make with Their Dental Insurance—and How You Can Avoid It

Did you know that many people miss out on valuable dental insurance benefits every year? If you don’t use them by the end of the year, you could lose them entirely. This is often referred to as the “use it or lose it” rule. Most dental insurance plans operate on a calendar year, meaning any benefits you haven’t used will vanish by December 31st.

If you’ve been delaying your dental appointments, now is the time to act. Not using your insurance could cost you both, finances and your dental health as well. 

Let’s explore how you can avoid losing these benefits and keep your smile healthy year-round.

Why do People Miss Out on Insurance Benefits?

• Lack of Awareness: Many people simply forget or don’t realize their benefits reset every year.
• Procrastination: Some delay appointments until it’s too late, leaving money on the table.
• Avoiding the Dentist: Dental anxiety often causes people to skip necessary visits, letting their insurance coverage go to waste.

How You Can Avoid Wasting Your Dental Insurance?

Understanding your dental insurance plan is key to making the most of it. Here are some practical steps you can take to avoid losing out:

1. Schedule Regular Checkups

Preventive care, like cleanings and exams, is typically covered fully or with minimal cost. If you miss these appointments, you’re essentially leaving money on the table.

• Action Step: Book two dental cleanings every year. These cleanings help catch problems early, saving you from costly treatments later.
• Tip: Many offices book months in advance, so schedule ahead to secure your spot.

2. Know Your Yearly Maximum

Your dental insurance has a limit on what it will cover each year. If you don’t use it, you lose it.

• Action Step: Find out your plan’s yearly maximum and plan treatments accordingly. If you’re close to your limit, consider scheduling additional services before the year ends.
• Tip: If you’ve put off treatments like fillings or crowns, use the remaining benefits before your coverage resets.

3. Split Treatments Between Years

For more extensive dental work, you can spread out treatments over two calendar years to maximize coverage. This way, you use your benefits for one year, and when the next year starts, you can take advantage of the new coverage.

• Action Step: Talk to your dentist about creating a treatment plan that works with your insurance schedule. They can help you prioritize urgent care and spread out non-urgent procedures.
• Tip: This strategy works especially well for major treatments like crowns, root canals, and dental implants.

4. Watch Out for Deadlines

Many insurance plans have deadlines for submitting claims. Delays in paperwork can lead to missed coverage.

• Action Step: Stay on top of paperwork and keep in touch with your dental office about filing claims.
• Tip: Ensure your dentist’s office processes claims promptly so you don’t miss out on coverage.

5. Understand Your Plan’s Coverage

Not all procedures are fully covered. Some treatments may require you to pay a portion of the cost, known as a co-pay, while others might not be covered at all.

• Action Step: Review your insurance plan carefully or ask your provider for a breakdown of what is and isn’t covered.
• Tip: Many offices can give you an estimate before your appointment, so you’re never caught off guard by the cost.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Many people think they’ll deal with dental issues when they arise, but the best way to save money—and your smile—is to take a proactive approach. Using your insurance benefits effectively prevents more serious (and expensive) dental problems from developing down the road.

Plan Ahead for Your Smile

• Proactive Care Pays Off: Preventive care is usually covered by insurance, so taking advantage of this is essential. Don’t wait until you have a dental emergency to start using your benefits.
• Stay Informed: Insurance plans can change from year to year. Keep an eye on any policy adjustments, and update your care schedule accordingly.
• Action Step: Contact your dentist today to see how much coverage you have left for the year.

Schedule Your Next Appointment

Dental insurance is a valuable resource, but it only works if you use it. Don’t let your benefits go to waste. Call Dawson Modern Dentistry today to schedule your appointment and make the most of your dental insurance!